26+ DIY Computer Desk ideas – build your own computer desk

Having your workspace to put your brand-new computer in your home office is a must whether you are spending time for work or gaming, or just checking emails.

On top of that, a great-looking workspace and an ergonomic computer desk should be a critical considerations that can increase your productivity.

One thing you have to remember is that the cable management system is also crucial. If it’s well-managed, you will not see the messy cable, even the dangerous risk of installing it.

But before you start building your computer desk, here are some things that you need to consider:

Easy

Opt for the easiest way to create your own computer desk. So it will also work for those who don’t have lots of woodworking experience, tools, and equipment. 

Size

Ensure your computer desk fit your device and is able to store some stuff that is frequently used or relate to your work. Also, it must be suited to the space of your room.

Ergonomic

Without neglecting the aesthetic point, the ergonomic aspect must be the crucial point you need to consider. Make sure the seat height and they armrests to a comfortable position.  

Stability

Everything must adjust and set as well for safety and security reasons. Other than that, the big flat surface would be the best option where you can put everything in one. 

Here are some ideas for a DIY computer desk you will need to brighten your inspiration for choosing the best computer desk:

Wood Computer Desk – Go Old School with This Stellar Creation

DIY Wooden Computer Desk with Books

This kind of desk is visually attractive and easy to build. It can house other items if you choose to build it that way.

Along with your PC, you will also be able to store books, pens, etc. Anything you need if your workstation is what you use when you’re working from home.

In general, you can’t go wrong with this sort of desk. Therefore, it will work very well if you want to build a DIY computer desk for your home computer.

All you need is an idea (design), sturdy planks of wood, nails, and a hammer.

Your computer desk might be the most important piece of furniture in your home if you work from home or spend a lot of time on your computer.

The supporting element of the computer is necessary, especially in this era of the digital world where the use of the computer and the Internet has increased.

Why is that so?

Nowadays, the majority of people spend most of their time on their computers or laptops. That’s why they require a computer desk.

For an avid computer user, a desk layout is very important, as it determines the convenience of the surroundings. In this article, you will get to know many creative ideas for DIY computer desks that you can make at home.

Not only will you be provided with a multitude of options, but you will also be able to make one that suits your home or workspace.

If you are looking for an affordable and high-quality desk for your home office, building your own is a good way to save money by following a DIY computer desk technique.

It will not only fulfill your needs perfectly but it will be a good addition to your home décor.

You can build a quality computer desk with some skills, a couple of pieces of wood and old furniture.

Here’s how you can create your own ergonomically tailored desk that makes all your tech items look good— without breaking the bank.

X-Legged Style Computer Desk – Best for a Modular Work Space

DIY Contemporary X-Legged Style Computer Desk
Milly Eaton

For people who prefer a modular type of workspace, this design of the computer desk will definitely be a good choice.

The X-Legged desk looks exactly like it sounds.

It’s a simple wooden board that is supposed by intersecting, wide, wooden legs.

The benefit of these legs is that they can also be segmented and used to store books, chargers, and other things that you might need for your work.

Eclectic Computer Desk – A Designer Replica

DIY Computer Desk with Bookshelves and Headphone Hanger

This eclectic computer desk is a great design for a DIY project. It’s chic and glamorous.

To make this DIY computer, follow these steps properly:

  1. Begin by sanding the tops and corner areas of the desk if you want to create your own version of a computer desk.
  2. Then, take a blow torch and use it over the wooden plank to give it an extraordinary design.
    Put the flame torch in a position to get the flame across the surface as you move horizontally.
  3. After that, clean the wooden piece with a wet cloth and then start staining the wood with your favorite shade.
  4. For the last step, set the shelves and legs together, put a glass sheet on top of the wooden table surface to complete the look of the desk.

This DIY can give you a computer desk that looks like it’s been designed by a professional.

For a beautiful, shiny finish, always remember to use a polish or a primer on your computer desk.

You can keep decorations like flower pots, magazines, etc. on your computer desk to make the desk look more appealing.

Wall Mounted Computer Desk – A Creative Home Office Desk

DIY Wall Mounted Computer Desk

To build this DIY computer desk, follow these simple steps:

  1. Take a chunky piece of wood.
  2. Put some cords or hinges at the corners.
  3. Make sure to look for your weight restrictions on the support system of the desk.
  4. To make your desk look appealing, use a furniture stain on the wooden plank.
  5. Lastly, mount the wooden plank on the wall.
  6. Once you have the item mounted on the wall, you have a modern floating desk with a minimalist appearance.

Bonus: This desk can be folded if not needed or when you need to save some space.

More Ideas:

DIY Wall Mounted Computer Desk with Bookshelves
Image: John Donkin Architect Inc.

Minimalist Computer Desk – Less Space, More Style

DIY Minimalist Computer Desk
Max Pixel

You can always go for a corner table structure if you are searching for a minimalist computer desk for your home office.

A corner table is a modern piece of furniture that gives an appealing look to your home décor.

To create this corner table, you’ll need:

  • 1 thick wooden plank
  • 4 wooden legs
  • Nails
  • Drill machine
  • Furniture polish
  • A hammer.
Ryker Corner Computer Desk
Wayfair

Look for an ergonomic design that does not require much room for the table and the computer system.

But make sure you have enough room on the table itself to do more work when needed.

Re-purposed Door Computer Desk – A Great Idea to Save Your Money

Re-purposed Door Computer Desk with Plans

View Plans

Who would have thought that an old re-purposed door can be used to make a computer desk? The concept is truly innovative, but it might be difficult to create.

If you want to build this DIY computer desk, you can use some old door lying around in your storeroom.

The best materials for a computer desk are sturdy doors that have not yet become the victim of termites. However, you can buy one from a carpenter if you do not have an old door at home. This is cheaper than purchasing a new one from the market.

You will not only save money but also upgrade your home’s appeal by creating a new computer desk on your own.

To construct this budget-friendly computer desk, you’ll need:

  • A wooden door
  • Nails
  • Screwed metal brackets
  • Drilling machine

For additional storage, you can also create extra shelves and racks from the door.

Cardboard Computer Desk – A Design That Is Super Affordable

DIY Karton Cardboard Office Desk
Gizmodo

This one is not exactly a “computer” desk. It’s more of a laptop desk or laptop workstation.

Cardboard isn’t strong enough to support the weight of a monitor, a CPU, and all the other things that come with a desktop computer, but it can support a laptop.

DIY Cardboard Computer Desk
Alrik Koudenburg and Joost van Bleiswijk

If you go for this type of desk, you’ll find that it’s not only super affordable, it’s also super functional.

Any type of cardboard can be used for this endeavor.

However, make sure your cardboard is in good shape and has the strength to hold your laptop.

Simply divide the cardboard into four different parts and modify the design to fit your laptop’s size.

You will also have to create a little hole on the backside of the cardboard for further cable management.

Small Computer Desk – Best for Effective Space Management

Simple Computer Desk with Shelves
Escala desk white from Dwell

See this desk in action:

Scandinavian Style Computer Desk with Shelves
Katy Orme Home Office

It’s not hard to create this small computer desk if you have some average carpentry skills. It’s actually very easy.

You only need to buy a piece of wood of the right size, and you can begin to create your DIY plan.

In this DIY technique, you can change the size as per your design and materials.

To build this computer desk you’re only going to need a few carpentry instruments like:

  • Saw clamps
  • Adhesive glue
  • Screws

Glass Computer Desk – Modern and Chic

DIY Glass Computer Desk
Adam Selwood

In this DIY computer desk idea, salvaged wood brings on a fresh level of elegance. And, with the addition of a glass work area, an older computer desk can be given a facelift.

Basement Office Glass Computer Desk
Adam Selwood

Integrating glass is an excellent way of adding a modern touch to your home décor.

Putting photos below the glass or sticking them to the surface of the glass is also an excellent way to keep yourself motivated during those tough days.

Print images which drive your creativity and organize them to place them on your computer desk.

A plain glass desk can help emphasize the design of your room without anything hidden at the back of the solid computer desk.

For extra elegance, the wooden base can be painted with gold paint for an instant glamorous effect.

The metallic shades are an excellent way to add neutral colors to a room without using the typical white or black colors.

Wire and Metal Computer Desk – An Antique Piece for Your Home Décor

DIY Wire and Metal Computer Desk

This desk has innovatively designed wire basket legs.

To build this DIY computer, you’ll need:

  • Lightweight wood/Ceramic Slab
  • Wired metallic Basket/Sewing machine legs
  • Adhesive glue
  • Bolts
  • Drilling machine
  • Paint

If you cannot choose one particular material for your desk, mixing mediums is a great way to match styles and create a more interesting piece.

Top it off with a lightweight wood or ceramic slab to remain in the industrial styled theme.

This DIY computer desk looks alluring because of its antique appeal. The design is easy to make. The combination of metal legs with wood allows the other elements of the room to get into focus.

This sort of DIY computer desk provides numerous customization options. Also, for its foundation, use a couple of sewing machine legs.

This can give it a wonderful look, especially if you prefer to make it look like an antique piece that has lots of history.

Mini Computer/Laptop Desk – Small and Useful

DIY Small Computer Desk
Pixabay

Who doesn’t love mini laptops? They are smaller than laptops, yet they are easy to carry anywhere, which makes much more practical.

Here is how you can craft your own laptop desk:

  1. You’ll first need to saw the wooden parts according to the size that you want. Then use laminated pine for the upper part and another piece of pine for the lower part of the desk, i.e. to build the legs and risers.
  2. In the next step, the angled corners are trimmed.
  3. After that, you’ll need to fix the desktop area with screws and adhesive glue.
  4. To attach the legs, drill holes at the top of your desk and fix each of them with screws.
  5. And to give it a finished look, paint the computer desk your favorite color.

There you have it, an adorable mini computer desk for your cozy workplace at home.

New Desk from Scratch – Solid but Stylish

IKEA HACK - Computer Desk DIY Project
The Rehab Life

This is a more complex project, but it can be done with some careful planning and construction.

It’s not hard to build a strong, sturdy and stunning desk from scratch, but it’s also not the simplest DIY out there.

However, if you’re looking for something that fits your vision while also reusing old furniture, then this is definitely the way to go.

In this case, it begins with a re-purposed wooden door.

  • Firstly, cut the door to the right dimensions and sand it. The legs of this desk are made with pine wood, and three legs are needed on either side in almost a triangle arrangement.
  • If you want to save some space, drill holes into the desk to accommodate the internet cable and the power cords. This will ensure that you don’t have a mess of wires spread all over.
  • Finally, add the finishing touches with a touch of primer and paintwork.

Aluminum and Birch Desk – A Unique Creation

DIY Birch and Aluminum Computer Desk
Instructables

Seriously? Is it possible to make a desk with aluminum and wood? Well, the answer is “yes”.

In fact, combining wood and metal to build a desk makes your furniture long lasting. This idea led to the concept of using wood and aluminum in a DIY corner desk.

This concept is unique and creative and can add more elegance to your home and workspace.

The following are the materials that you will need for this DIY project:

  • Birch plywood
  • Acrylic sheet
  • Aluminum
  • Galvanized steel
  • Screws bolts
  • Adhesive glue
  • Wide Tape
  • Car Wax
  • Aluminum polish

View Instructions

Although this list is quite long, these are commonly available items.

Furthermore, you will be astonished at how easy it is to make this desk on your own.

The desk is designed with a large top to give you the most space possible.

The wide scattered top on which stuff is maintained is made of wood. The table top is then covered in aluminum, while the legs are built from a strong wooden material.

This DIY computer desk is ideal for your home and workplace as it will give a stylish appeal to your work station.

Nails or screws can be used to knot the table together, but stainless steel screws are the best option for knotting the wooden surface together with the aluminum.

Modern Mid-Century Computer Desk – Turn Your Dresser into a Desk

DIY Dresser as Computer Desk
Pexel

This design combines style and storage in a way that greatly saves space in your home, and gives you a convenient workstation. This one is a walk in the park to make.

DIY Dresser Home Office Desk
Ebay

To construct this DIY computer desk, follow these easy steps:

  1. Measure the height of your dresser, and buy two computer stand legs that are of a similar height.
  2. Then, take a wooden slab of appropriate length and width, and lay it over the dresser. The dresser will support its side of the slab.
  3. To support the other side, simply use the desk legs that you bought earlier.
  4. Lastly, glue or nail these legs to the wooden slab.

You should consider building this computer desk if you want to alter the design of your room, or if you have only one dresser accessible for mounting your desktop, or if you desire for a modern and contemporary vibe in your workspace.

Tips: if you are a woman, you can make this desk as makeup storage!

Industrial Style Computer Desk – Make This for an Edgy Industrial Vibe

DIY Pipe Desk with Shelves
simplifiedbuilding.com

View Project

If you’re worried about the splinters or scrapes that you might get from all the reused wood from the desks on this list (or maybe you’re just not a fan of desks made from reused furniture), then you’re in for a treat with this entry.

Are you ready? Pipes! Galvanized pipes, to be more precise.

Not only is this type of desk easy to make, but it also looks absolutely stunning – like something straight out of a factory.

All you need is a wooden board (laminated or painted – your choice), and some pipes. Simply connect the pipes as you would if you were setting up a plumbing system.

When you’re happy with how the pipes look, connect them to the base of the wooden board by either gluing them or screwing them into the wood.

Sawed Apart Computer Desk – A Beautiful Customized Creation for Your Office Space

DIY Two Person Computer Desk

A computer desk is basically just a modified table for your computer. Hence, an old table can be used as a computer desk.

However, you don’t just want to lose the table. In this case, you can make a computer desk and a table by simply sawing your old table in two.

Saw the table in half and attach legs to support the two tables.

Now you have a computer desk as well as a small table that can function as a coffee table or a small dining area for one person.

Movable Computer Desk – A Great Addition to Your Workspace

DIY Small Movable Computer Desk with Book Storage

Do want a computer desk that has vintage and rustic appeal? If yes, then you must use this DIY idea.

The wheels of this computer desk make it easy to move and place as per your requirements.

To construct this DIY computer desk, you’ll need:

  • 4 big wooden boards
  • 4 steel wheels
  • 1 small wooden plank
  • Screws
  • Nails
  • Hammer
  • Primers.

All this stuff is easy to find at home!

  1. Begin by mounting the big wooden boards to each other in the form of a box.
  2. Then nail the smaller wooden board in the center of the box. By doing this, you’ve effectively made a shelf inside your box.
  3. After that, add the wheels on the bottom side of the box for proper mobility.
  4. You can also paint or apply a primer on this computer desk to give it a more attractive look. Try to use a rustic color stain to really bring out the beauty of the wood that you’ve used.

Wardrobe Computer Desk – A Genius Hack to Utilize Your Old Wardrobe

Wardrobe Computer Desk

View Instructions

A wardrobe as a computer desk? Really?

If you have an old wardrobe and no longer use it, then it can be a good idea to create a hidden computer desk out of it. But here you have a few challenges.

The idea is to find a way to store your computer and avoid overheating. For that, you need to find a way to ventilate the wardrobe when you turn it into a desk.

But in any case, if you want, you can still use it for your laptop.

Long Corner Computer Desk – Best for Big Spaces

DIY Long Corner Computer Desk
Instructables

This kind of desk is one that is the best fit for big spaces.

You can use it in your office space or at home, but it is not recommended to place this desk in small office rooms.

To build this DIY desk, you’ll need:

  • Wooden pallets
  • Screws
  • Nails
  • Metal braces

The pallets are measured according to the size of the room. In order to achieve an ideal design, the surfaces of the table must be clean. Lay the wooden pallets down and add thick plates and braces to the wood.

There’s no drawer in this desk because it’s usually not necessary at home.

In case you plan to use this type of DIY corner desk, the surface can be painted or laminated to be water resistant. Formica may be put on top and glued to make it look more appealing.

how to build a small computer desk ? Reclaimed Corner Desk

Reclaimed DIY Corner Desk
Source: ConcatLab

Placing a computer desk in the corner when you want to save space of your room is a good idea.

Reclaimed wood is one of the ways to create a corner desk inexpensively. You don’t need to worry about being distracted by unwanted things when you place the computer desk in the corner.

The tools you’ll need to start these plans:

  • Miter Saw – recommend 12″ for cutting 2x6s.
  • Circular Saw
  • Drill
  • Impact Driver
  • Router – w/ cove and round over bits
  • Orbital Sander
  • Measuring tape, stick, etc.
  • Square-speed squares work great
  • Clamps
  • Pocket Screw Jig + Bit
  • Paintbrush

The detailed steps of creating a reclaimed corner desk can be easily followed on instructables.com.

DIY Pipe Computer Desks

DIY Pipe Computer Desk
Source: fitzkits

If you are going to embrace the industrial-chic trend, the industrial pipes will be the best solution to install the pipe desk.

You can put your 3 monitors once on the floating pipe easily. The additional shelf on the top will help you to store the documents, speakers, or artsy stuff to make it more beautiful.

Putting hooks on both sides of the shelf can be the best place to store your headphone properly.

These floating monitors will give you a wide sight, which convenient your time on working or gaming.

Small Standing Computer Desk

Small Standing DIY Computer Desk
Credit: Etsy (Item no longer available)

Does a small room confuse you when you are about to install a computer desk? If so, here is the answer.

You can deal with the small room by installing a small standing computer desk; pull-out desk.

It’s an unusual pull-out desk because it is a separate desk with a different size of desks.

You can use the bigger and the higher desk to put the monitor while you can put the keyboard on the smaller and the lower desk.

It doesn’t have any storage so this standing computer desk is the best solution for those who don’t have any spacious room.

To embrace the natural look, you only need to sand the wood down and polish it a little.

Tips: Cut half of the desk horizontally and it will become a TV Stand.

DIY Computer Desk from Pallet

DIY Pallet Computer Desk

The pallet is one of the most-wanted industrial waste. There are a bunch of things you can create by using this kind of garbage. You can also make a computer desk from a pallet.

First, you have to choose the best pallet you will need and sand it down.

You can store your documents, books, and stationery on the table legs.

This desk offers you so many spaces to store your stuff. This desk will be suitable to be placed in either a small room or in a spacious room.

Placing it near the window will boost your mood when you are working, so it can increase your productivity.

L-Shaped Computer Desk with Storage

L Shaped Computer Desk with Storage
Source: Wayfair

The shaped desk is the most convenient among others.

You can work conveniently with the computer in front of you while you can put everything you need to be like stationary beside you, which simplifies your move.

You can put another document, artsy stuff, on the shelf so that it will make your desk not look so full and messy.

You can decorate your desk with flowers and also small artsy stuff.

This slim desk is perfect for your small room without taking over your space.

To make it more elegant, you can paint it black.

Pipe Computer Desk with Shelves

Pipe Computer Desk with Shelves
Etsy ($990)

Another idea of reclaimed the industrial pipe, double desks with shelves is one of the great ideas.

It makes your working time more comfortable, this slim desk with the shelves over the desk will not make your workbench looks messy.

Adding wire baskets to your shelves can help you to store your documents or small stuff as well.

If distraction can be a slight problem for you, placing them flat up against the wall is the best decision if it comes with the window is to your side.

Rustic Computer Desk

Rustic Computer Desk
Maker: shanty-2-chic.com

If you are a rustic enthusiast, rustic design to your workspace should be on your bucket list.

The best way to accentuate the rustic design is by using a reclaimed wood desk, and a side cabinet with grayish shades.

The white wire basket with the beige and brown touch of the table lamp is matched perfectly with the rustic style.

The position of the window will help you to widen your sight when you are working in front of the computer for a long time.

Build this desk

How to build a computer desk from scratch? Simple DIY Pipe Computer Desk?

Simple DIY Pipe Computer Desk
Via: housebyhoff.com

The simple DIY pipe computer desk is suitable for those who don’t want their desk taking up their space.

This simple computer desk is made out of unpainted wood and also water pipes which are covered in a shiny coat of black paint. Putting the wheels is all that you need if you are prefer to move your desk effortlessly.

You can decorate your desk with flowers and wall art.
Besides, adding a study lamp will accentuate the simple yet elegant look of your desk, and of course, it will make your reading and working time better.

Supplies to get these plans done:

  • Level
  • Cordless Drill
  • File
  • Pipe Wrench (optional)
  • 5 ft Butcher Block Workbench Top
  • 3/4″ Piping
  • (4) 3/4″ Flanges
  • (6) 3/4″ Tees
  • Wood Screws
  • (4) Casters
  • 3/4″ Dowel Rod

View Full Instructions

Conclusion

We hope that you were inspired by the endless desk-making ideas in this article. It can be elaborate or minimal – whatever is feasible for your time and the space in your home or workspace.

If you want a computer desk that is not only functional but also suits the theme and looks of your home, then the ideas mentioned in this list are what you need.

Choose one that best suits your home and get building!

DIY Wooden Computer Desk with Books
Rachel Tate

Rachel Tate

Passionate about interior design and helping readers find design inspiration. Head of content in Define Bottle Since and love writing about interior design ideas.

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